Monocle on Design

Nagata Takahiro, a Tokyo-based curator who compiled the Hyako survey of contemporary Japanese makers. He describes visiting artisans across Japan and the exhibition’s layout and lighting. They discuss the coined term Hyako, a 31-word glossary that frames makers’ values. Conversation covers everyday utility, mingei revival and how materials and craft give objects a living spirit.

Nic Monisse joins Simone Brewster at the London Design Museum to discuss her latest exhibition. Then: Gregory Scruggs explores the Dominican Republic’s booming design scene. Plus: our take on this year’s Pritzker Architecture Prize. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The final part of our series from design salon Matter and Shape with Dan Thawley and Nic Monisse. We blur the boundaries between inside and out with Jayden Ali and talk about scale and sculpture with Birkenstock 1774. Plus: Connecting jewellery, interiors and object design with Repossi and Sabine Marcelis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sour's Pinar Guvenc discusses how local community is helping shape better buildings. Then: GA’s Jessica Morrison on what luxury hospitality means in 2026? Plus: Nic and Grace dissect designers from a month of fashion weeks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Across a two-part series, we recap design salon Matter and Shape. We hear from three brands editing new and archival works, talk cross-cultural pollination with Villa Hegra and consider how we can design with scent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Korean craft has long been overlooked. We speak to author Hyo Jung Lee about her book exploring the full scope of the country’s design practice. Plus: Nic Monisse and Grace Charlton discuss the design landscapes of Cape Town and Marrakesh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Design in Ho Chi Minh is on the up: we speak with one designer who is using the city’s signature restaurant stools as a canvas. Plus: Nic Monisse and Grace Charlton pick highlights of The Monocle 100 from the March issue. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As London craft-and-design fair Collect gets under way, Nic Monisse chats with director TF Chan about the philosophy of “fewer, better things”. Plus: buttons and handles are coming back to our vehicles but will Nic and Grace Charlton give them the green light? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak to Phoebe Lindsay, Materiality Senior Manager for Range Rover. Hear how the storied automaker uses materials to shape emotions and tell stories. Plus, taking a holistic approach to design strategy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you pick a unique brand colour and does it matter? Pantone Color Institute’s vice-president joins to discuss. Then: Tallinn architecture students pay homage to Louis Kahn. Plus: Nic and Grace on brand collaboration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.